Type 2 Diabetes - Would You Know If You Have Diabetic Neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is the most common complication of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In the US alone, 60 per cent of 23 million diabetics have developed this complication which can take two forms:

peripheral neuropathy
autonomic neuropathy

The most disfiguring and also debilitating outcome of peripheral neuropathy is the development of foot ulcers, leading to necrosis or death of cells and consequently to foot amputation. This is the number one cause of nontraumatic amputations.

Symptoms of nerve damage may include:

numbness and tingling in your feet, legs, hands, arms and fingers
muscle wasting of your hands or feet
digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea
problems with urination
sexual dysfunction in both males and females
dizziness, faintness, increased or decreased sweating
visual difficulties
lack of awareness of warning signs of low blood sugar

As you can see neuropathy affects every nerve in every part of your body as a consequence of elevated blood sugar levels.

But, not all diabetics have this complication. And clinically, health care providers are unable to tell which of their patients are going to develop these neuropathies.

How are diabetic neuropathies diagnosed?

diagnosis is usually made on the basis of symptoms and a physical examination
your health care provider may order other tests as part of your diagnosis including nerve conduction studies or an ultrasound
it is important to have a comprehensive foot exam yearly to check for peripheral neuropathy. During this examination your skin, muscles, bones, circulation and sensation of your feet will be checked. People are usually unaware they have lost sensation in their feet ... it is potentially a serious condition as it removes the usual warning people get when their feet are being damaged. So if you have lost sensation in your feet it is important that you have regular feet checks and follow the advice that you are given regarding footwear.

How do your prevent diabetic neuropathies?

Modern research has clearly shown that the degree of long-term complications depends directly upon your blood sugar levels over the course of the years you have had diabetes. One study showed that for every 1% reduction in your HbA1c level there was a 37% fall in the risk of complications from diabetic neuropathies. Blood pressure control also played a part: a 13% reduction for every 10mmHg fall in blood pressure.

The key to preventing and treating neuropathy is to get your type 2 diabetes under control, particularly your blood sugar levels. Whilst there are many diabetic medications available to control diabetes, the basis of diabetic control is a healthy diet and lifestyle.

If you would like to download a free copy of my E-Book, click here now: Answers to Your Questions ... it's based on questions diabetics have asked me over recent months.

Beverleigh Piepers is a registered nurse who would like to help you understand how to live easily and happily with your type 2 diabetes.

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